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A review by tinyjude
The Deep by Rivers Solomon
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This novella reframes and provides a fantastical interpretation of what happened to the unborn babies of African women as they were forcefully taken from their homes in slave ships to exploit them. This atrocious moment in history is reimagined in such a lyrical and poetic way, while also being nonetheless extremely critical with white supremacy and the exploitation of black people. The combination of both aspects and the influence of African culture, create an emotional tale which maintains a special rhythm and conection with nature, especifically the sea and its power, that touches the reader deeply. The story focuses on history, but also love, community, shared generational grief, loneliness, hatred... A masterpiece.
Graphic: Death, Genocide, Racism, Slavery, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Trafficking, Grief, Suicide attempt, Murder, and Colonisation
Moderate: Child death, Panic attacks/disorders, Blood, and Cannibalism